Mohali :
Civil Surgeon Dr. Sangeeta Jain has appealed to residents of the district not to pay attention to rumours and misinformation being spread regarding the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine and to rely only on scientific facts and medical experts for correct information.
Dr. Jain stated that the HPV vaccine plays an important role in protecting women from cervical cancer, a serious and life-threatening disease. The vaccine is being administered free of cost at various government health institutions to girls who have crossed their 14th birthday but are yet to turn 15. She added that the same vaccine is available at a much higher cost in private hospitals
She explained that HPV is a common virus which can lead to cervical cancer and several other serious diseases in the future. The HPV vaccine is considered a safe and effective preventive measure against these illnesses.
The Civil Surgeon further said that various misleading and false claims about the HPV vaccine are being circulated on social media and other platforms. Some rumours falsely claim that the vaccine causes infertility or other serious health issues, but there is no scientific evidence to support such claims. She clarified that the vaccine is approved for use only after rigorous scientific testing and safety evaluations.
On this occasion, District Immunization Officer Dr. Girish Dogra also appealed to people not to panic or believe rumours regarding the vaccination drive. He informed that mild pain, swelling in the arm or slight fever after vaccination are common and temporary side effects which usually subside on their own after some time.
Health officials urged residents to avoid relying on unverified or misleading information and instead contact health department officials, healthcare workers or nearby health institutions to obtain accurate information about the vaccine.
